If I am applying for Early Decision, and the deadline for the application is November 1st, is October 7th the latest SAT date I am able to take? Do most colleges accept SAT scores after the application deadline? If they do accept SAT scores later, does it look bad to submit them after the deadline?
I would not say most but many schools do accept test scores after application deadline. Nevertheless, what really matters is whether the school you are going to apply accept scores after deadline. If you have previous test score(s) and submitted before deadline, it will keep your application active and the may evaluate your new score when it comes in. If you do not submit any score before deadline (or within the grace period), your EA application may be deferred or disqualified.